Whenever you hear a strange noise coming from your vehicle, it should grab your attention. It's more than just an annoyance. It's often your car trying to tell you something is wrong. If your car, truck or SUV doesn't feel quite right, or you notice anything unusual (bad odors, odd sounds, fluid leaks, smoke/steam, etc.), you shouldn't ignore it. Get your vehicle looked at by an expert mechanic to determine if there is a problem, and how serious that problem might be.
This Halloween season, we're used to hearing some spooky sounds. Here are 9 of the scariest sounds you don't want to hear coming from your car:
1. Screeching
These are sounds most often associated with brake, wheel and tire issues. Brakes tend to screech upon braking or acceleration, commonly letting you know that the brake pads and/or rotors are going bad. You may be due for a brake service.
2. Humming
When a wheel bearing goes bad, it will typically let out a soft and steady humming sound or a loud howling/whining noise. It is usually most noticeable when making turns at slower speeds. Wheel bearing damage is definitely something you will want to get looked at as soon as possible. This sound could potentially be a differential problem, as well.
3. Pops or Clicks
It may sound kind of like a rhythmic finger snap and is noticeable when you are turning a 4x4 or all-wheel-drive vehicle. Then, it probably goes away when you are driving straight. This sound is generally associated with a failing CV (constant velocity) joint on the front axle.
4. Rattling and Vibrating
Loud rattles and significant vibrations are generally signs of an exhaust system issue, most likely a failing catalytic converter and/or exhaust leak.
5. Backfiring
If your vehicle is backfiring a lot (loud bangs coming from the tailpipe), it could be an exhaust system issue or perhaps something wrong with the engine or ignition system.
6. Squeaking
If you have a rear-wheel-drive or four-wheel-drive vehicle, you may hear a rhythmic squeaking that tends to speed up as you accelerate. This is likely the U-joint, which is an important component of the drivetrain system.
7. Grinding
Most grinding noises will be coming from the transmission or clutch assembly. Occasional grinding of the gears may be partly a user error in a manual transmission vehicle if your shifting technique isn't smooth. However, significant and persistent grinding could mean there is a serious transmission problem. Grinding gears in an automatic transmission vehicle is never a good sign. Grinding noises can also come from brakes, wheels, axles, differentials and transfer cases.
8. Clunking
Loud clunking noises are also associated with transmission issues. It could also be something like a broken motor mount or a damaged rod/piston.
9. Squealing
Bad brakes may let off more of a squealing noise, or it could be a loose/damaged fan belt or drive belt under the hood. If the noise is most noticeable when you are starting up the car, then it is likely a belt slipping.
These are some of the spooky noises you should be aware of when starting up your car or when you are driving around. Don't ignore the problem. It's best to get your vehicle inspected soon, so you can catch minor issues before they turn into major damage or safety concerns.
If you notice any strange sounds coming from your car this Halloween season, it's probably not ghosts. Call Fox Run Auto today at (302) 597-9205 if you are in the Northern Delaware area and we'll be glad to take a look at your vehicle. You can also book your service appointment online.